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Unbent by Jason Palter

Created by: Jason Palter

Unbent is a highly visual close-up magic trick, primarily using cards or bills, that creates a CGI-like illusion of an object bending unnaturally and then restoring itself. In one version, a spectator's signed bill visibly bends at a right angle before snapping back to normal, while in another, a signed playing card is accidentally over-creased on its back and then magically healed, leaving the signature intact. This effect is designed to be baffling and appears as if it's a digital glitch happening in real life. Buyers should note that it involves a custom gimmick (available in specific colors like blue for bills or cards), is not examinable before or after the climax, and requires low to moderate skill, making it accessible for various performers. It's ideal for small group settings, walk-around magic, or camera performances like TV and social media.

Key features

  • Creates a strong visual impact with a CGI-like illusion

  • Low to moderate skill level required, making it accessible

  • Instant reset and repeatable for multiple performances

  • Angle-proof and can be performed surrounded in small groups

  • Completely impromptu with no setup needed

  • Uses a durable, reusable gimmick with no magnets or electronics

  • Includes high-quality online tutorials covering handling and presentation

Pros

  • Highly visual and baffling effect that leaves a lasting impression

  • Easy to perform with instant reset, suitable for quick sets

  • Versatile for various performance contexts like openers, closers, or walk-around

  • Durable gimmick built for repeated use

  • No forces required for card selection, enhancing authenticity

Cons

  • Gimmick is only available in specific colors (e.g., blue), which may limit compatibility with certain bills or cards

  • Not examinable by spectators before or after the effect

  • Angles are manageable but not 360-degree, best for small groups

Effect

Unbent creates a moment that looks like a computer-generated illusion happening in real life. A spectator signs a card. The magician demonstrates how a card cheat might mark a card by bending it. The card is bent too far, leaving a visible white crease across its back. With a simple shake, the crease visibly vanishes. The card is completely restored and can be given to the spectator as a signed souvenir.

Full details

Unbent is a card magic trick by Jason Palter. It uses a custom gimmick made from a blue Bicycle card. The trick requires no magnets or electronics. The method allows for an instant reset. This means you can perform the trick multiple times in a row without any pause. The handling is clean and the angles are well managed. You can perform the trick for a small group without worrying about your position. The product includes online tutorial videos. These videos teach the handling and also provide tips on presentation and pacing.

Who should consider the trick

Unbent is a good choice for magicians who perform in different settings. It works well for live shows, television, and social media like Instagram or TikTok. It is suitable for walk around magic or as a quick, powerful effect in a longer set. Because the card is signed and given away, it is ideal for performers who want to leave a strong memory with their audience. The trick is also good for magicians who value effects with an instant reset for repeated performances.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The skill level for Unbent is low to moderate. The basic handling is not complex. The tutorial covers all necessary moves. The method is designed to be accessible. Beau from Murphy's Magic states the skill level makes it accessible for many performers. You do not need advanced sleight of hand to achieve the core effect. The tutorial also provides advice on misdirection, which helps make the performance smoother.

What magicians say

Reviewers highlight the strong visual impact of Unbent. Beau from Murphy's Magic loved the illusion. He said the visual impact is incredibly strong and bizarre. He described it as perfectly achieving a "CGI in real life" feel. He also praised the construction of the gimmick, calling it well-made and durable. He noted the trick is not examinable right after the climax, which is an important point for performers.

The promotion material emphasizes the trick's practicality. It is completely impromptu with no setup required. It features an instant reset for multiple performances. The effect is angle-proof and can be performed surrounded. Jason Palter presents it as a highly visual, repeatable item for working performers.

The trick's presentation is also discussed. The suggested story involves card cheating, which makes the effect feel organic. Since the card is signed and given away, it leaves a powerful souvenir. The trick is partially inspired by Arnel Renegado's Creased, but was developed independently.

What people are saying about Unbent

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

The central premise of the effect is to create a moment so visually impossible that it appears to be a CGI glitch happening in real life. [...] The skill level required is considered low to moderate, making it accessible to a wide range of performers.

SaturnMagicShop says...

The product appears to be a magic effect or gimmick, though the exact nature of the trick is not detailed. [...] It is promoted as part of a wider range of magic products aimed at working performers and hobbyists.

Review videos

Promotional videos